The Persuasions
Might as Well: The Persuasions Sings Grateful Dead

Leave it to singer/songwriter David Gans, who also happens to host the Grateful Dead Hour
radio program, to put the spotlight back on the Grateful Dead's stellar songwriting and glorious
lyrics. This is an aspect that has long been forgotten by the jam band scene, and Gans deftly
emphasized it on Stolen Roses, an exquisite collection of
Grateful Dead songs performed by a variety of artists.

Might as Well, Gans' latest project, blossomed out of the Stolen Roses recording
sessions with the a cappella group The Persuasions. Yet, this wasn't their first contact with the
Grateful Dead's music. They had opened for the Jerry Garcia Band in 1977, and the notion of their
recording an album of Grateful Dead songs had been floated several years ago, though it didn't come
into focus until Gans' involvement.

The biggest problem with Might as Well, if there is one, is its length. Clocking in at
nearly 70 minutes, it's a hefty piece to grasp fully, and at first, it can be a bit overwhelming to
comprehend. Nevertheless, perseverance is the key — and unquestionably a must — as there is some
fine music to be heard. For example, the title track rumbles along a '50s style doo-wop groove, and
Liberty is transformed into a rousing gospel number.

The highlights, however, are by far the gentle Garcia ballads. Here, The Persuasions take their
time in traversing the terrain, allowing each little nuance of the song to magically spring to life
through their majestic vocalizations. Sugaree, Black Muddy River, and Ship of Fools
are most certainly the cream of the crop. They're stunningly beautiful creations that tickle the ear
and tantalize the brain with their rapturous elation. Though there is some instrumentation added to
a few of the tracks (courtesy of Gans, keyboardist Vince Welnick, bluegrass legend Peter Rowan, and
others), it's the songs and The Persuasions' sublime vocals that truly make this one a
keeper.

Please note: This album was reissued as a two-disc setPersuasions of the Dead: The Grateful Dead Sessions

Persuasions of the Dead: The Grateful Dead Sessions is available
from Barnes & Noble. To order, Click Here!